Good morning. We hope you had an amazing Christmas! (if you celebrate). Hopefully, you’re not too full of Turkey and stuffing to enjoy this week’s edition of Turbo Times.

Let’s dive in.

News from The Paddock

Ridiculous Russian EV prototype targets 2025 production 🚘️ 

Slim Jim Fast Meat car reported stolen in California 🥷 

Used car dealer bilked 120 disabled people in sales of wheelchair-accessible vans (Apparently he sold one van to 13 different customers!) 🚓 

Unveilings

McLaren Unveils the New GTS, a Refined Successor to the GT

McLaren has just revealed the GTS, an evolution of the GT marked by subtle and significant updates. Launched in December 2023, this supercar features aerodynamic enhancements like sculpted air intakes, new rear diffusers, and adaptive suspension and ceramic brakes. It's powered by an upgraded 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, now producing 626bhp, housed in McLaren's carbon fiber MonoCell II-T chassis. Despite the power boost, it retains the GT's 3.2-second 0-62mph sprint and 203mph top speed. The GTS also offers expanded customization options with luxurious interior materials and advanced technology. Orders are now open, with deliveries expected in 2024. Click the link below to catch a peek!

Tesla Cybertruck: The Electric Pickup That Doubles as a Boat?

Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, has recently announced a groundbreaking feature for the Tesla Cybertruck: it can also function as a boat. This revelation came in December 2023 as the Cybertruck went on sale in the US. Designed to traverse up to 100 meters of water, the modification mainly involves enhanced door seals. Starting at $60,990, the Cybertruck boasts impressive specs like a 0-60mph time of 2.6 seconds and bulletproof capabilities against small-arms fire. Unveiled at the Tesla Giga factory in Texas, the Cybertruck is poised to redefine the electric pickup market with its unique dual functionality. Musk describes it as 'the most unique thing on the road,' and it's easy to see why.

Sale of the Week

2012 Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package - $1,720,000

This is easily our favourite sale of the week to date. An absolute masterpiece of a car.

A remarkable 2012 Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package, one of only 64 models equipped with this exclusive package, has been sold for an impressive $1,720,000. This rare car, #349 of 500 ever made, boasts just 2,100 miles. It features a vibrant orange exterior, black Alcantara upholstery, and 20" BBS alloy wheels. The LFA is powered by a 4.8-liter V10 engine paired with a six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox and a Torsen limited-slip differential. Notable attributes include Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, bi-xenon headlights, a fixed rear wing, heated and power-adjustable seats, and a state-of-the-art Mark Levinson audio system. Additional luxuries include fitted Tumi carbon-fiber suitcases, a comprehensive service record, and a clean Carfax report. This sale is a testament to the LFA's unique blend of luxury, performance, and rarity.

Just click the link below and take a look. Masterpiece.

Buying?

Compact City Cars: Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla

When it comes to choosing a compact city car, two names often come to the forefront: the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla. Both have their strengths and cater to different preferences, making them top contenders in the compact car segment.

Honda Civic: Sporty and Reliable

The Honda Civic has long been celebrated for its sporty demeanor coupled with Honda's renowned reliability.

• Size & Handling: The Civic is known for its engaging handling, making it a pleasure to drive, especially in urban settings.

• Engine Options: It offers a range of engine choices, including fuel-efficient and turbocharged variants for a more spirited drive.

• Tech & Interiors: The Civic's interior is modern and driver-focused, with advanced infotainment systems and comfortable seating.

• Price: Typically starts around $21,000, offering great value for its features.

Toyota Corolla: Efficiency and Durability

The Toyota Corolla, on the other hand, is a symbol of efficiency and durability.

• Size & Comfort: It's designed with comfort in mind, providing a smooth ride in city environments.

• Engine Choices: The Corolla offers a range of engines, including a highly efficient hybrid option.

• Interior & Features: Its interiors are practical and well-built, equipped with user-friendly technology and safety features.

• Cost: Starting at approximately $20,000, it's competitively priced for budget-conscious buyers.

Key Comparisons:

• Fuel Efficiency: Both cars offer excellent fuel economy, but the Corolla has an edge, especially with its hybrid option.

• Resale Value: Both models hold their value well, though the Corolla often has a slight advantage in this area.

• Drive Experience: The Civic is generally more engaging to drive, with a sportier feel, while the Corolla focuses on comfort and ease.

Decision Factors:

• Budget: Both cars are priced similarly, but the total cost of ownership, including fuel and maintenance, can vary.

• Daily Commute: For longer commutes, the Corolla's efficiency and comfort shine, while the Civic offers a more dynamic driving experience for city driving.

• Reliability: Both models are known for their reliability, but the Civic's sportier nature might appeal more to those who enjoy an engaging drive.

🔍 In Summary: The Honda Civic is an excellent choice for those seeking a sporty, engaging compact car with reliable performance. The Toyota Corolla, conversely, is ideal for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency, comfort, and long-term durability. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences in driving style, comfort, and technology features.

Upcoming Automotive Events

San Diego International Auto Show: San Diego, USA, Friday, December 29th - Monday, 1st January

This Week In Automotive History

The Postal Pioneer: Crosley Cars

A New Era in Mail Delivery

On this historic day, the USPS began employing the Crosley car, a compact and efficient vehicle, transforming the face of mail delivery. Designed for practicality, these right-hand-drive cars navigated urban and suburban streets with unprecedented ease.

Innovative Automotive Solutions

The Crosley's introduction to the USPS fleet underscored the adaptability of automobiles to meet specific operational needs, marking a significant moment in both automotive and postal service history.

Driving Towards the Future

The use of Crosley cars by the USPS is a testament to the evolving role of vehicles in public service, paving the way for future innovations in utility transportation.

Industry Insights

⚡ Tesla's Cybertruck Battery Challenge: Scaling Up for Success

Challenges are significantly hindering Tesla's Cybertruck production in manufacturing its innovative 4680 batteries. The company's Giga Texas factory can only produce enough battery cells to support about 24,000 Cybertrucks annually, far below the targeted 250,000. The main bottleneck is the new dry-coating technology used for the batteries, particularly for the cathode. Tesla is the first to attempt commercializing this technology for large EV batteries at scale, facing difficulties in achieving consistent quality and speed in production. This bottleneck is critical as Tesla also plans to use these batteries in other vehicles, including a $25,000 small car.

🌿 EPA Report: US Fuel Economy Hits Record High, CO2 Emissions at All-Time Low

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's latest Automotive Trends Report reveals significant environmental strides in the automotive sector. For model 2022, vehicle fuel economy reached unprecedented heights, and CO2 emissions saw a record drop. The report highlights that all 14 major manufacturers complied with greenhouse gas standards. Key advancements include a significant annual improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions - the largest in nine years. Electric and hybrid vehicles played a crucial role, contributing to a 22-gram per mile reduction in CO2 emissions and a 1.2 mpg increase in fuel economy. These trends underscore the industry's move towards cleaner, more efficient transportation.

Thanks for tuning into this week’s TurboTimes. We hope you have a happy new year, and we’ll see you in 2024! (Still crazy even just typing that…)